Executive Leadership Of The Pan African Chamber Of Commerce
Who we are
The leadership team of the Pan African Chamber of Commerce is a partnership to develop and expand a network of leaders in the business, government and community sectors who are prepared to address the unique challenges of economic development in Africa.
The leadership team also acts as corporate think tank to help the chamber to strategically impact our communities by creating jobs via supporting small to medium enterprises Africa.
The mission of the leadership team is to develop and provide leadership to work jointly with the business, community, and government interests to ensure balanced decision-making in maintaining Africa’s vitality and liveability.
They facilitate among others:
Executive relationships with local and international stakeholders.
Strategic leadership and implementation.
Mentorship to the members of the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and other small business owners to become active in civic activities that will meet the changing demands on our local communities.
Johnny Muteba
(South Africa): Chairman and Founder
Johnny Muteba founded the Pan African Chamber of Commerce in 2015 in Johannesburg/South Africa. He has over 15 years of work experience in media, entertainment, entrepreneurship, trade, social impact, and human rights.
He is a global thought leader with a proven track record of leading multicultural teams and delivering outstanding results and as an in-depth understanding of business networking, negotiations, relationships, and project management. Johnny’s work is inspired by his responsibility to Africa. He has a very special ability to connect entrepreneurial vision, creative passion, and innovative problem-solving.
His enthusiasm and experience provide compelling insights, interesting ideas, and refreshing approaches which are so desperately needed today. Johnny offers a broad range of professional services for artists, corporations, universities, and Governments. Across all that he does, he taps into the power of creativity to innovate lives, bottom lines, organizations, and the communities that sustain us.
The Pan African Chamber of Commerce is currently active in more than 45 countries in Africa and is also in the United States and Europe. He is a member of the World Trade Organization/International Chamber of Commerce committee on medium and small enterprises advisory committee He is also the founder of the Women Entrepreneurship Centre, and the American Arts Academy.
Selah Abrams
President
Selah Abrams’ career was initiated in New Orleans where he honed his sound
engineering skills with R&B and Jazz legends, leading to roles with Cash
Money and No Limit Records, and collaborations with artists across
genres in New York and Atlanta.
In the late ’80s, his ventures expanded into the hemp industry, and founded The African Institute of Mining in Zimbabwe, followed by significant marketing roles in New York City.
After 9/11, Selah returned to Atlanta, contributing to Turner Networks/CNN and fostering US-Africa entertainment co-productions. He
played a crucial role in the growth of CV Sciences, the 1st CBD public company to approach $1B, and ventured into contract manufacturing and automated indoor farming systems.
Selah’s involvement in Atlanta’s professional organizations and co-founding of New Leaders Council, GEM Workforce Development, and VidCamp conferences highlight his commitment to community development.
Selah recently exited Salesmaster AI, co-founded in March 2020, which focuses on AI/ML for Sales and Marketing.
Currently, Selah Abrams is actively engaged in non-profit workforce
development and capital finance in Charlotte, Atlanta, and throughout
Africa, leveraging his extensive experience to foster growth and
innovation.
Niousha Roshani (PhD)
Chief Executive Officer
Niousha Roshani is the Deputy Director of the Content Policy & Society Lab (CPSL) and a fellow of the Program on Democracy and the Internet (PDI) at Stanford University. She was a Technology and Human Rights Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, an IDB-ALARI Fellow on Race and Public Policy in Latin America at the Afro-Latin American Research Institute and a research fellow at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University. She completed a PostDoc at Harvard
University, a PhD in Education at the University College London (UCL), a Master’s degree in International Development from Cornell University, and a BS in Civil Engineering.
A fluency in five languages, an Iranian heritage, and an educational background at the International French School in Côte d’Ivoire have positioned Niousha as a cross-cultural and global expert in research, policy and practice working in over 25 countries directing organizations and programs, establishing strategic partnerships, and working with entrepreneurs, CSOs, philanthropy, and the private and public sectors.
She is the co-founder of Global Black Youth, which connects, amplifies, and invests in the reach and impact of the most cutting-edge technology generated by young Black innovators and entrepreneurs on a global scale.
As a senior fellow at the Portulans Institute, she conducts research on decolonized innovation and the new futures of work in Africa and LAC. In her past roles, she advised governments and the private sector on youth
entrepreneurship and conflict resolution, digital rights of
underrepresented groups (SSA, LAC and ME); on tech + policy (SSA + LAC); on best practices for journalists to report on young women in digital media (SEA); and addressing misinformation online with journalists
(Europe, SSA, and LAC). For over a decade, she served as the Executive Director of the Nukanti Foundation, leveraging youth-led media to strengthen communities affected by armed conflict.
Nonkululeko Britton Masekela
Chief Operations Officer
Nonkululeko Britton is a masterful raconteur whose rich tapestry of experience spans the realms of media, marketing, and digital innovation. Renowned for her tenure as Executive Producer on esteemed radio programs such as the Ezasekuseni Breakfast
Show with DJ Sbu (Ukhozi FM), Breakfast Xpress with Darren ‘Whackhead’ Simpson (947), the John Robbie Show (702), and the Xolani Gwala show (702), she has captivated audiences with her storytelling prowess.
In recent years, Nonkululeko has expanded her horizons, delving into the realms of User Experience Design and Management. She currently spearheads Design Operations at Old Mutual Limited, following a successful stint at Standard Bank SA.
Beyond her achievements in media and corporate leadership, Nonkululeko has emerged as a trailblazer in agripreneurship. She is the visionary force behind the Kula Africa Foundation, a platform dedicated to championing initiatives in food security and sustainable agriculture. Through this foundation, she mentors social entrepreneurs in urban farming, fostering collaboration among local farmers and entrepreneurs to drive agricultural community-building initiatives and bolster the local economy.
Nonkululeko’s impact extends far beyond her professional endeavors. She has been prominently featured and profiled as an agripreneur across a spectrum of media platforms, including Mail & Guardian, Sowetan, Destiny Magazine, True Love Magazine, Women24, as well as appearances on prominent television and radio shows such as
SABC 3, SABC 1 Daily Thetha, SABC 2 Living Land, 702, Power FM Power Talk, and eNCA.
Her commitment to storytelling, innovation, and community empowerment makes her a driving force in both the media landscape and the agricultural sector.
Deidre Watson-Meijers
Chief Innovations Officer
Mrs Deirdre Watson Meijers is known as a venture builder, integrated strategist, creative director, projects and innovation consultant, partnership creator, entrepreneur, artist and designer (conceptual, spatial, systems). She obtained her honours-degree Cum Laude from Stellenbosch University with her main subjects being psychology, research and arts, focusing on conceptualisation and considering various social inequalities and societal norms/beliefs
through the design of functional and shelter clothing. Deirdre also holds a Master’s degree (Higher Second) from Wits University in conceptual arts where she investigated creative thinking in business for innovative transformation, (dis)placement and disruption.
Her focus has always been on/in business and how to strategically and creatively solve challenges through innovative ideas and implementing such through various means – i.e., technology solutions and development, spatial solutions (architecture), product design and more. She is known as an executioner and has received various accolades. One was a stint in the UK, spending time at the University of Oxford (UK), and being introduced to the concept of open strategies and design thinking. Accomplished in strategic brand leadership, creative
communication (with various diplomas from Vega School), disruptive strategies and design thinking, she has impacted businesses with her innovative strategic approach.
She has furthermore completed higher learning certificate courses through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Innovation of product and services: MIT’s approach to design thinking), and Harvard Business School Online (Disruptive Strategy, Global Business and Business Strategy). Advancing people in their purpose is at the core of all she does.
Tafadzwa Luke Mupingashato
Chief Economist
I am an experienced Development Economist with a strong academic background and over 10 years of experience in project finance, economic research, analysis, and policy formulation. I hold a Master of Commerce in Financial Economics and am currently pursuing a PhD in Economics from
the University of Witwatersrand. My expertise lies in data analysis, econometric modelling, and proficiency in various software applications
such as E-Views, Stata, Excel, Power BI, Gretl, and PowerPoint.
Throughout my career, I have held various roles, including Chief Executive Officer, Faculty Lecturer, Senior Economic and Financial Analyst, Research Economist, Project Economist, and Economist. In these capacities, I have showcased my skills in strategic policy advice, intellectual leadership on applied research and policy development,
cutting-edge economic research, internal research report production, collaborating with external partners, project management, and mentoring
team members.
I am particularly well-suited for positions related to economic research, analysis, and policy development. I have a keen interest in
development economics, economic forecasting, financial analysis, and data-driven decision-making, making these potential areas of interest
for me.
Thato Wesi
Chief Communications Officer
Ms Thato Wesi is a seasoned executive with a distinguished career in Public Relations and Communications, specializing in the NGO and Education sectors. With a profound expertise spanning Brand Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Business Development, and Events Management, Ms Wesi has been at the forefront of driving impactful initiatives and fostering meaningful connections within diverse communities.
With an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth, Ms Wesi continually empowers herself through self-development programs aimed at nurturing women and youth leadership. Actively engaged in initiatives promoting women’s empowerment and youth development, she exemplifies a dedication to fostering inclusive environments where individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
Equipped with a Master’s degree in Strategic Communications Management from the esteemed University of Pretoria, Ms Wesi combines academic rigor with practical experience to navigate the complexities of modern communication landscapes effectively. Her academic foundation is complemented by a spectrum of self-development certifications focusing on entrepreneurship and leadership, underscoring her holistic approach to professional enrichment.
Throughout her career, Ms Wesi has spearheaded transformative campaigns and initiatives that have left indelible marks on the organizations and communities she serves. Whether orchestrating compelling brand narratives, cultivating strategic partnerships, or orchestrating seamless events, she consistently demonstrates a knack for driving results and fostering lasting connections.
A visionary leader with a passion for empowering others, Ms Wesi embodies the values of integrity, empathy, and inclusivity in all her endeavors. With a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to creating positive change, she continues to be a driving force in the realms of PR and Communications, inspiring those around her to reach new heights of success while leaving a lasting impact on the world.
Zacha van Wyk
Chief Creative Officer
W O R K E X P E R I E N C E:
HEAD OF OPERATIONS- HOUSE OF
BONIWE
September 2022- Present
- Reporting directly to CEO & COO
- Project management
- Overseeing Yes Intern Placements in Both: The Western and Northern Cape
- Supervising HOB’s departmental operations and activities
- Cooperating with external stakeholders
- Change Management
- Creating a strategic workload balance
PRODUCTION HR CONSULTANT
NETFLIX
November 2020 – Augustus 2022
Deliver Production HR Respect/Anti-Harassment training
Partner & coach leaders (Including Producers and HODs) – Act as a sounding board for executives in managing difficult conversations, terminations, or similar dilemmas.
Point of contact for all cast, crew, and HODs – Manage employee relations concerns for all talent on set (Mediation)
Guidance on mental health and psychological resources available for talent.
Work closely with the Safety department on adhering to covid rules and regulations & all other protocols that must be adhered to in relation to labor requirements.
Encourage reporting of incidents.
Make sure that proper investigation for these incidents takes place.
Align with the Mind team (If there are any minors in the production – ensure parameters
and guidelines are adhered to.
Assist in crisis management on set – On people-related aspects: Breakdowns or triggers that can happen during production.
Provide psycho-social support to individuals and guidance on all issues as they relate to
ensuring a safe, respectful and positive production working environment
Ensuring all industry protocols are being adhered to in relation to hours of work, breaks, etc.
Being the point of contact for all cast, crew, and HODs on set for all welfare-related issues.
Providing input to Netflix regarding industry norms and/or standards around issues of
production set welfare and/or on how to resolve any issues arising on production.
GENERIC SOCIAL WORKER
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, UPINGTON
February 2015 – July 2016
Worked as a generic social worker at the district office doing case and group work
Planning, implementing and facilitating programs for children, families and disabled persons.
Senior social worker/Office head at the Department of Social Development satellite office in Groblershoop. Conducting case and group work.
As the only departmental social worker in the Kheis municipality I worked closely with
NGOs, ECD centers, as well as service centres, and soup kitchens in the area.
Worked in six areas in and around Groblershoop.
Working with different departments in order to establish food gardens within the Opwag community.
Dr Boitumelo Phetla
Chief Wellness Officer
Dr. Boitumelo Phetla is a well-rounded medical professional with a passion for healthcare, business, and community development. She is bornand bred in Ga-Sekhukhune, South Africa. Her native language is Sepedi.
She holds a medical degree and also pursued an MBA degree, demonstrating her commitment to both the medical and business aspects of her career.
As a general medical practitioner, she has a broad knowledge base but has developed special interests in areas such as mental health, women and child health, and obesity management.
Her MBA research focused on gathering the perspectives of general medical practitioners in private practice regarding the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) policy in South Africa. This shows her interest in healthcare policy and its impact on the medical fraternity.
In addition to her medical and business pursuits, Dr. Phetla has also taken on entrepreneurial roles. She is the founder and CEO of Doctorpreneur, a company that aims to enhance healthcare standards and knowledge management. The company also provides mentorship to final-year medical students, helping them transition into their professional careers.
Furthermore, Dr. Phetla founded and serves as the chairperson of the Dr. BB Phetla Foundation. The foundation focuses on community development and empowerment through activities such as motivational talks, book donations, career guidance, and mentorship programs. She specifically works with students in underprivileged communities, aiming to support and uplift them.
Dr Phetla is also a self-published author of two books. Business & Life Secrets for a heavenly experience on earth title (2015) is inspired by the life of her late grandfather who was a successful businessman during the apartheid era in South Africa. Real Life & Business Minds title (2023) is a national bestselling anthology co-authored by 32 black professionals and entrepreneurs who are based in South Africa.
In her appointed role as the chief wellness officer, she also intends to establish strategic conversations on wellness for healthpreneurs, healthcare service providers, medical students and related stakeholders.
Overall, Dr. Boitumelo Phetla is a multi-faceted medical professional who combines her medical expertise with business acumen and a commitment to community development and empowerment.
Andre Johnson
Chief Business Officer
Managing Owner of Alliance Management Consulting.
ANDRE JOHNSON IS A PROFESSIONAL EXECUTIVE WHO HAS 18 YEARS BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE
His acumen in Financial Management together with Project Management experience sets him apart from others. His personal objective towards change management strategies and developing operational policies to build an attractive and harmonious work environment to both staff and team players allows him to produce work deliverables.
Andre Johnson graduated from the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business and received an award for Technology and Business in 2011. His personal achievement is working alongside a team of consultants on the 2010 World Cup Operational Plan for the City of Cape Town. He is an asset to most organisations with a lifelong experience in Administration, Marketing, Operations, HR, Information Technology, Strategic Management, Projects and Financial Management.
Nycholas Partee
Chief Technical Officer
I have always had an inherent fascination with two things: breaking stuff and technology. As a kid I would often find myself in trouble, because I liked to take things apart to see the technology inside, but I could never put anything back together… Happy Meal toys, my toys, my game system, the TV… my mom’s alarm clock… you see why I got into trouble! Well my mom got tired of it and put into a NSBE Jr. program in 2009 in Columbus, OH, and ever since then I have been focused in tech. I received my first job in IT in 2013, at 17, with DeVry University, then with the Department of IT for Ohio University, and then continued with a few other companies, such as: Eli Lilly and Company, Johnson and
Johnson, Cardinal Health, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, etc. I am currently a Cloud Automation Engineer in the Cloud Engineering Services organization for Eli Lilly and Company. I am honored to be able to help bring the BDPA Cloud Academy to life, and am excited to see the impact we will make.
Yolanda Benya
Chief Youth Officer
Yolanda Benya is a dedicated and passionate youth development and enterprise development worker with a strong commitment to
empowering young people and fostering entrepreneurship. With 16 years of experience in the field, Yolanda has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by youth in today’s society and has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for their growth and success.
Yolanda Benya holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Cape Town in Drama, Gender Studies & Religious Studies. She has received specialized training in youth development and business management through volunteer programs and work in the non profit sector as well as corporate. Through her work, Yolanda has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at providing mentorship, training, and resources to young individuals interested in starting their own businesses or pursuing career paths in various industries.
Known for her exceptional communication skills and ability to build meaningful relationships through stakeholder management, Yolanda has successfully inspired and motivated countless youth and community development initiatives. She is a firm believer in the power of education, skill development, and community support in shaping the future of our youth and driving economic growth. Yolanda’s dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and enterprise development serves as a shining example for others in the field.
Dr Ricky Gallaway
Chief Trade and Investment Officer
Ricky Gallaway is a distinguished international business strategist and the esteemed President and CEO of Transcontinental Consulting, a globally recognized business consulting firm headquartered in Stafford, Virginia. With a relentless focus on business management consulting, strategic operations, and executive leadership. Transcontinental Consulting has garnered a reputation for excellence in guiding organizations to reach their full potential. Notably, the firm is also a registered Free Zone business in Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
Dr. Gallaway’s professional journey is marked by his unwavering commitment to empowering business owners, both on a domestic and international scale, to orchestrate profound transformations within their organizations. His core mission is to enable personnel to align with their respective missions and unlock their full potential by harnessing the five critical success factors of business
development. Beyond his executive role, Dr. Gallaway is a prolific author, a certified coach, a dynamic speaker, and an accomplished trainer. He provides expert consulting services to corporate leaders, assisting them in enhancing personal and collective clarity, pioneering innovative response techniques, leveraging strengths, cultivating productive relationships, and achieving strategic goals.
Dr. Gallaway’s influence extends far and wide, as he has played an instrumental role in reshaping work environments across diverse sectors, including the private, public, government, and non-profit realms. His hallmark lies in guiding clients and their teams to realize their strategic goals, consistently delivering value that surpasses expectations. Furthermore, he has collaborated with various organizations to refine their mission and vision statements, fine-tune goals and objectives, and develop forward-looking strategic initiatives. Dr. Gallaway’s clients universally praise him as transformational, strategically astute, well-informed, perceptive, intriguing, deeply committed, and unfailingly engaging.
At the core of Dr. Gallaway’s professional philosophy is the belief that the growth and success of businesses hinge upon the art of strategic leadership. His unique expertise lies in shepherding his clients through the intricate stages of technical and operational management, ultimately leading to the realization of their strategic vision. This exceptional ability has earned him a reputation deeply rooted in the delivery of value, consistently guiding clients and their teams toward the achievement of their loftiest strategic aspirations. His communication style is notable for its engagement and straightforwardness, rendering complex concepts accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of race, creed, or culture.
Dr. Gallaway’s academic achievements underscore his commitment to excellence. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Social Science from Binghamton University, a Master of Business Administration in Management Information Systems from Southeastern University, a Master of Business Administration in International Business from Strayer University, and a Doctor of Management in Organization Leadership, specializing in Information Systems and Technology Management, from the prestigious University of Phoenix. These impressive credentials solidify his status as a leading authority in the fields of international business strategy and leadership coaching.